The first step to resolving any problems that arise from your home improvement project is to try to negotiate with the contractor directly. Make sure to send a certified letter as a follow-up to any phone conversations with your contractor detailing what was said in each phone conversation for your records. Request a return receipt for your certified letter to prove that the contractor received it.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to take your complaint to a higher source. Some places to consider contacting when dealing with an unscrupulous contractor include:
- State and local consumer protection offices (ie Department of Consumer Affairs, etc.)
- Builders Association and/or Remodelers Council in your state or city.
- Local Better Business Bureau.
- Consumer Reporters at local newspapers, TV stations and radio stations.
- Any local dispute resolution program.
